Be prepared for an emergency

By Norwalk Reflector Staff
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Sep 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM

September is National Preparedness Month.

Huron County Public Health (HCPH) has committed to increase preparedness throughout Huron County. HCPH is encouraging households, businesses, and communities to prepare and plan for emergencies. Disasters don’t plan ahead, but you can.

Building an emergency kit is an important way to keep you and your family safe in a crisis situation. It is also an easy way Huron County residents can take part in this National Preparedness Month. According to Ready.gov an emergency kit should include:

• Water — at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• Food — at least three-day supply of non-perishable food

• Prescription medications

• Non-prescription medication such as pain relievers

• Glasses and contact lens solution

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio

• Flashlight

• First aid kit

• Extra batteries

• Whistle to signal for help

• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

For a full listing of all items to consider including in your emergency kit visit: ready.gov/build-a-kit.

Remember that disasters don’t plan ahead. This can leave you and your family without the everyday luxuries that were used to, such as electricity, gas, water, and telephones. Also, emergency responders may not be able to reach you immediately. Emergency kits should allow families to be self-sufficient for at least three days following a disaster.